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Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 104-B, Issue SUPP_7 | Pages 65 - 65
1 Jul 2022
Brown W Gallagher N Bryce L Benson G Beverland D
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Abstract. Introduction. The Wells score is commonly used to assess the risk of proximal Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) following Knee Arthroplasty (KA). The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines recommend an Ultrasound scan in patients with a Wells score of 2 points or more. We wanted to assess how often this protocol resulted in a scan being done and how many were negative. Methodology. Details of all postoperative Ultrasound scans performed up to 90 days were audited in a high-volume unit between 1st January 2016 and 31st December 2020. This included all Lower Limb Arthroplasty patients. Results. Out of a total of 4955 KA (4506 Total Knee Arthroplasty, 449 Unilateral Knee Arthroplasty), 449 (9.1%) had a total of 561 scans, with 17 (3.0%) scans demonstrating a proximal DVT. Thus 97.0% of Ultrasound scans were negative. Conclusion. The present NICE guidelines with the two-Level DVT Wells score are inappropriate for the management of suspected proximal DVT following KA. We propose that swelling that fails to reduce after 4 hours of elevation, or new swelling after a period of recumbent rest, would be more appropriate indications for a scan and negative scans should not be repeated without a change in symptoms. Unless there are pressing clinical indications, therapeutic anticoagulation should not commence in the absence of a diagnosis


The Bone & Joint Journal
Vol. 102-B, Issue 9 | Pages 1167 - 1175
14 Sep 2020
Gromov K Petersen PB Jørgensen CC Troelsen A Kehlet H

Aims. The aim of this prospective multicentre study was to describe trends in length of stay and early complications and readmissions following unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) performed at eight different centres in Denmark using a fast-track protocol and to compare the length of stay between centres with high and low utilization of UKA. Methods. We included data from eight dedicated fast-track centres, all reporting UKAs to the same database, between 2010 and 2018. Complete ( > 99%) data on length of stay, 90-day readmission, and mortality were obtained during the study period. Specific reasons for a length of stay of > two days, length of stay > four days, and 30- and 90-day readmission were recorded. The use of UKA in the different centres was dichotomized into ≥ 20% versus < 20% of arthroplasties which were undertaken being UKAs, and ≥ 52 UKAs versus < 52 UKAs being undertaken annually. Results. A total of 3,927 procedures were included. Length of stay (mean 1.1 days (SD 1.1), median 1 (IQR 0 to 1)) was unchanged during the study period. The proportion of procedures with a length of stay > two days was also largely unchanged during this time. The percentage of patients discharged on the day of surgery varied greatly between centres (0% to 50% (0 to 481)), with centres with high UKA utilization (both usage and volume) having a larger proportion of same-day discharges. The 30- and 90-day readmissions were 166 (4.2%) and 272 (6.9%), respectively; the 90-day mortality was 0.08% (n = 3). Conclusion. Our findings suggest general underutilization of the potential for quicker recovery following UKA in a fast-track setup. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(9):1167–1175


Aims. Enhanced perioperative protocols have significantly improved patient recovery following primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Little has been investigated the effectiveness of these protocols for revision TKA (RTKA). We report on a matched group of aseptic revision and primary TKA patients treated with an identical pain and rehabilitation programmes. Methods. Overall, 40 aseptic full-component RTKA patients were matched (surgical date, age, sex, and body mass index (BMI)) to a group of primary cemented TKA patients. All RTKAs had new uncemented stemmed femoral and tibial components with metaphyseal sleeves. Both groups were treated with an identical postoperative pain protocol. Patients were followed for at least two years. Knee Society Scores (KSS) at six weeks and at final follow-up were recorded for both groups. Results. There was no difference in mean length of stay between the primary TKA (1.2 days (0.83 to 2.08)) and RTKA patients (1.4 days (0.91 to 2.08). Mean oral morphine milligram (mg) equivalent dosing (MED) during the hospitalization was 42 mg/day for the primary TKA and 38 mg/day for the RTKA groups. There were two readmissions: gastrointestinal disturbance (RTKA) and urinary retention (primary TKA). There no were reoperations, wound problems, thromboembolic events or manipulations in either group. Mean overall KSS for the RTKA group was 87.3 (45 to 99) at six-week follow-up and 89.1 (52 to 100) at final follow-up (mean 3.9 years, (3.9 to 9.0)). Mean overall KSS for the primary group was 89.9 (71 to 100) at six-week follow-up and 93.42 (73 to 100) at final follow-up (mean 3.5 years (2.5 to 9.2)). Conclusion. An identical pain and rehabilitation protocol used for primary TKA patients can enable certain full-component aseptic RTKA patients to have a similar early functional outcome. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(6 Supple A):96–100


The Bone & Joint Journal
Vol. 102-B, Issue 6 Supple A | Pages 73 - 78
1 Jun 2020
Hamilton WG Gargiulo JM Parks NL

Aims. The purpose of this study was to use pharmacogenetics to determine the frequency of genetic variants in our total knee arthroplasty (TKA) patients that could affect postoperative pain medications. Pharmacogenetic testing evaluates patient DNA to determine if a drug is expected to have a normal clinical effect, heightened effect, or no effect at all on the patient. It also predicts whether patients are likely to experience side effects from medicine. We further sought to determine if changing the multimodal programme based on these results would improve pain control or reduce side effects. Methods. In this pilot study, buccal samples were collected from 31 primary TKA patients. Pharmacogenetics testing examined genetic variants in genes OPRM1, CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C19, CYP3A4, CYP2C9, and CYP2D6. These genes affect the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and opioids. We examined the frequency of genetic variants to any of the medications we prescribed including celecoxib, hydrocodone, and tramadol. Patients were randomized to one of two groups: the control group received the standard postoperative pain regimen, and the study group received a customized regimen based on the pharmacogenetic results. For the first ten postoperative days, patients recorded pain scores, medication, and side effects. Results. Genetic variants involving one or more medications in the multimodal pain protocol occurred in 13 of the 31 patients (42%). In total, eight patients (26%) had variants affecting more than one of the medications. For the 25 patients who recorded pain and medication logs, the mean pain levels and morphine equivalents (MEQs) consumed in the first ten days were higher in the control group than in the custom-guided group (p = 0.019 for pain and p = 0.655 for MEQ). Conclusion. Overall, 42% of patients had a variant involving one of the pain medications prescribed in our perioperative pain program for TKA. Ongoing research will help determine if using these data to modify a patient’s medication will improve outcomes. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(6 Supple A):73–78


Aims

Nearly 99,000 total knee arthroplasties (TKAs) are performed in UK annually. Despite plenty of research, the satisfaction rate of this surgery is around 80%. One of the important intraoperative factors affecting the outcome is alignment. The relationship between joint obliquity and functional outcomes is not well understood. Therefore, a study is required to investigate and compare the effects of two types of alignment (mechanical and kinematic) on functional outcomes and range of motion.

Methods

The aim of the study is to compare navigated kinematically aligned TKAs (KA TKAs) with navigated mechanically aligned TKA (MA TKA) in terms of function and ROM. We aim to recruit a total of 96 patients in the trial. The patients will be recruited from clinics of various consultants working in the trust after screening them for eligibility criteria and obtaining their informed consent to participate in this study. Randomization will be done prior to surgery by a software. The primary outcome measure will be the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score The secondary outcome measures include Oxford Knee Score, ROM, EuroQol five-dimension questionnaire, EuroQol visual analogue scale, 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-12), and Forgotten Joint Score. The scores will be calculated preoperatively and then at six weeks, six months, and one year after surgery. The scores will undergo a statistical analysis.


The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery British Volume
Vol. 94-B, Issue 11 | Pages 1511 - 1516
1 Nov 2012
Chang CB Cho W

In a prospective multicentre study we investigated variations in pain management used by knee arthroplasty surgeons in order to compare the differences in pain levels among patients undergoing total knee replacements (TKR), and to compare the effectiveness of pain management protocols. The protocols, peri-operative levels of pain and patient satisfaction were investigated in 424 patients who underwent TKR in 14 hospitals. The protocols were highly variable and peri-operative pain levels varied substantially, particularly during the first two post-operative days. Differences in levels of pain were greatest during the night after TKR, when visual analogue scores ranged from 16.9 to 94.3 points. Of the methods of managing pain, the combined use of peri-articular infiltration and nerve blocks provided better pain relief than other methods during the first two post-operative days. Patients managed with peri-articular injection plus nerve block, and epidural analgesia were more likely to have higher satisfaction at two weeks after TKR. This study highlights the need to establish a consistent pain management strategy after TKR


The Bone & Joint Journal
Vol. 102-B, Issue 1 | Pages 117 - 124
1 Jan 2020
MacDessi SJ Griffiths-Jones W Chen DB Griffiths-Jones S Wood JA Diwan AD Harris IA

Aims. It is unknown whether kinematic alignment (KA) objectively improves knee balance in total knee arthroplasty (TKA), despite this being the biomechanical rationale for its use. This study aimed to determine whether restoring the constitutional alignment using a restrictive KA protocol resulted in better quantitative knee balance than mechanical alignment (MA). Methods. We conducted a randomized superiority trial comparing patients undergoing TKA assigned to KA within a restrictive safe zone or MA. Optimal knee balance was defined as an intercompartmental pressure difference (ICPD) of 15 psi or less using a pressure sensor. The primary endpoint was the mean intraoperative ICPD at 10° of flexion prior to knee balancing. Secondary outcomes included balance at 45° and 90°, requirements for balancing procedures, and presence of tibiofemoral lift-off. Results. A total of 63 patients (70 knees) were randomized to KA and 62 patients (68 knees) to MA. Mean ICPD at 10° flexion in the KA group was 11.7 psi (SD 13.1) compared with 32.0 psi in the MA group (SD 28.9), with a mean difference in ICPD between KA and MA of 20.3 psi (p < 0.001). Mean ICPD in the KA group was significantly lower than in the MA group at 45° and 90°, respectively (25.2 psi MA vs 14.8 psi KA, p = 0.004; 19.1 psi MA vs 11.7 psi KA, p < 0.002, respectively). Overall, participants in the KA group were more likely to achieve optimal knee balance (80% vs 35%; p < 0.001). Bone recuts to achieve knee balance were more likely to be required in the MA group (49% vs 9%; p < 0.001). More participants in the MA group had tibiofemoral lift-off (43% vs 13%; p < 0.001). Conclusion. This study provides persuasive evidence that restoring the constitutional alignment with KA in TKA results in a statistically significant improvement in quantitative knee balance, and further supports this technique as a viable alternative to MA. Cite this article: Bone Joint J. 2020;102-B(1):117–124


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 105-B, Issue SUPP_13 | Pages 11 - 11
7 Aug 2023
Khalid T Ben-Shlomo Y Bertram W Culliford L England C Henderson E Jameson C Jepson M Palmer S Whitehouse M Wylde V
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Abstract

Introduction

Frailty is associated with poorer outcomes after joint replacement. Targeting frailty pre-operatively via protein supplementation and exercise has the potential to improve outcomes after joint replacement. Before conducting a randomised controlled trial (RCT), a feasibility study is necessary to address key uncertainties and explore how to optimise trial design.

Methodology

Joint PREP is a feasibility study for a multicentre, two-arm, parallel group, pragmatic, RCT to evaluate the clinical and cost-effectiveness of prehabilitation for frail patients undergoing total hip or knee replacement. Sixty people who are ≥65 years of age, frail and scheduled to undergo total hip or knee replacement at 2–3 NHS hospitals will be recruited and randomly allocated on a 1:1 ratio to the intervention or usual care group. The intervention group will be given a daily protein supplement and will be asked to follow a home-based, tailored daily exercise programme for 12 weeks before their operation, supported by fortnightly telephone calls from a physiotherapist. Embedded qualitative research with patients will explore their experiences of participating, reasons for non-participation and/or reasons for withdrawal or treatment discontinuation.


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 94-B, Issue SUPP_XXIX | Pages 97 - 97
1 Jul 2012
White WJ Harvey J Toms AD
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Allogeneic blood transfusion is associated with complications and significant cost. The RD&E has looked at the use of autologous drains to decrease the frequency of allogeneic transfusion after our study of 100 cases showed an improved post-operative haemoglobin and reduced length of stay. In 2007 a protocol to identify those patients of increased need for an autologous drain was made using a study of 191 cases showed an average haemoglobin drop post-operatively of 3.05g/dl and average intra-operative blood loss of 285 ml. This protocol gave triggers for autologous drain use; preoperative haemoglobin of <13g/dl, intra-operative blood loss >400ml, tourniquet use, patient weight <50kg and patients refusing donated blood. In 2007-08, 65% of a further 275 cases analysed met the triggers for use of an autologous system. The remaining patients received low vacuum drains. Of the 275 patients, only 2 (<1%) of those who did not fulfil the criteria for an autologous drain required allogeneic blood, compared with 43 patients (24%) of those deemed high risk of transfusion, and assigned autologous drains. The protocol was successful in identifying those patients who required additional support and expenditure to minimise allogeneic blood transfusion. Analysis of this data led to recommended changes to the protocol in order to maximise the efficiency of the autologous drain use. Due to the increased cost of autologous drains (£68) compared with the low vacuum systems (£32), and the cost of allogeneic units at £141, the expenditure per patient was calculated and shown to fall from £92 in 2007 to £78 in a further patient cohort in 2010. In conclusion, this protocol allows the clinician to appropriately target the use of the more expensive autologous drains to those of increased risk of transfusion. This helps to minimise unnecessary allogeneic transfusion, and this has been shown to be cost effective


Abstract

Design

A pragmatic, multicentre, parallel-group, randomised controlled trial to determine whether the intervention is superior to comparator

Setting

20 NHS Hospitals


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 105-B, Issue SUPP_13 | Pages 23 - 23
7 Aug 2023
Wehbe J Womersley A Jones S Afzal I Kader D Sochart D Asopa V
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Abstract. Introduction. 30-day emergency readmission is an indicator of treatment related complication once discharged, resulting in readmission. A board-approved quality improvement pathway was introduced to reduce elective re-admissions. Method. The pathway involved telephone and email contact details provision to patients for any non-life threatening medical assistance, allowing for initial nurse led management of all issues. A new clinic room available 7 days, and same day ultrasound scanning for DVT studies were introduced. A capability, opportunity and behavior model of change was implemented. Readmission rates before and six months after implementation were collected from Model Hospital. A database used to document patient communications was interrogated for patient outcomes. Results. Prior to implementation, readmission rates following elective primary total knee replacement (TKR) at the 1st business quarter of 2021 (April – June 2021), was 8.7%, (benchmark 3.8%). Following implementation, readmission rates decreased to 4.1% (October – December 2021). 54% of patients making contact were managed with telephone advice. 15% of patients required face-to-face clinic. 32% of those required a same day scan to exclude DVT (1/4). 20 out of 684 TKRs performed following protocol introduction were re-admitted within 30 days. Readmissions were 41% surgical, 29% medical. 52% were unaware of the newly implemented protocol. Further improvements have been made to the protocol based on these findings. Implementation of a suitable pathway can significantly reduce re-admission rates in our center and could be used to reduce readmission rates in other national elective treatment centers


The Bone & Joint Journal
Vol. 103-B, Issue 6 Supple A | Pages 102 - 107
1 Jun 2021
Feng JE Ikwuazom CP Mahure SA Waren DP Slover JD Schwarzkopf RS Long WJ Macaulay WB

Aims. Liposomal bupivacaine (LB) as part of a periarticular injection protocol continues to be a highly debated topic in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). We evaluated the effect of discontinuing the use of LB in a periarticular protocol on immediate postoperative pain scores, opioid consumption, and objective functional outcomes. Methods. On 1 July 2019, we discontinued the use of intraoperative LB as part of a periarticular injection protocol. A consecutive group of patients who received LB as part of the protocol (Protocol 1) and a subsequent group who did not (Protocol 2) were compared. All patients received the same opioid-sparing protocol. Verbal rating scale (VRS) pain scores were collected from our electronic data warehouse and averaged per patient per 12-hour interval. Events relating to the opiate administration were derived as morphine milligram equivalences (MMEs) per patient per 24-hour interval. The Activity Measure for Post-Acute Care (AM-PAC) tool was used to assess the immediate postoperative function. Results. A total of 888 patients received Protocol 1 and while 789 received Protocol 2. The mean age of the patients was significantly higher in those who did not receive LB (66.80 vs 65.57 years, p = 0.006). The sex, BMI, American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status score, race, smoking status, marital status, operating time, length of stay, and discharge disposition were similar in the two groups. Compared with the LB group, discontinuing LB showed no significant difference in postoperative VRS pain scores up to 72 hours (p > 0.05), opioid administration up to 96 hours (p > 0.05), or AM-PAC scores within the first 24 hours (p > 0.05). Conclusion. The control of pain after TKA with a multimodal management protocol is not improved by the addition of LB compared with traditional bupivacaine. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(6 Supple A):102–107


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 104-B, Issue SUPP_7 | Pages 13 - 13
1 Jul 2022
Kocialkowski C Hart S Murray J
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Abstract. Introduction. Knee osteotomy, both high tibial and distal femoral osteotomy, is a well-recognised treatment for young, active patients with unicompartmental knee osteoarthritis. Osteotomy around the knee is usually performed as an inpatient procedure. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness and patient satisfaction of our day-case protocol for knee osteotomy. Methodology. All patients who underwent day-case knee osteotomy at the study unit, over a three-year period, were reviewed to assess the success of ambulatory care for knee osteotomy. Patients were sent questionnaires to assess functional outcome and patient satisfaction with our day-case process. Results. Thirty-three knee osteotomies were performed as a day-case protocol, of which same day discharge was achieved in 24 patients (73%) and discharge within 24 hours achieved in 32 patients (97%). The mean post-operative Knee Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) was 67.1 and 79% of patients rated their care as good or excellent. Return to sporting activities was achieved in 75% of patients, and 88% of patients reported they would be happy to undergo day-case knee osteotomy again. Conclusion. Knee osteotomy, both high tibial and distal femoral osteotomy, can be successfully performed as a day-case procedure with similar improvements in functional outcomes and no increased complication rate, compared to in-patient osteotomy


The Bone & Joint Journal
Vol. 106-B, Issue 12 | Pages 1416 - 1425
1 Dec 2024
Stroobant L Jacobs E Arnout N Van Onsem S Tampere T Burssens A Witvrouw E Victor J

Aims. Approximately 10% to 20% of knee arthroplasty patients are not satisfied with the result, while a clear indication for revision surgery might not be present. Therapeutic options for these patients, who often lack adequate quadriceps strength, are limited. Therefore, the primary aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical effect of a novel rehabilitation protocol that combines low-load resistance training (LL-RT) with blood flow restriction (BFR). Methods. Between May 2022 and March 2024, we enrolled 45 dissatisfied knee arthroplasty patients who lacked any clear indication for revision to this prospective cohort study. All patients were at least six months post-surgery and had undergone conventional physiotherapy previously. The patients participated in a supervised LL-RT combined with BFR in 18 sessions. Primary assessments included the following patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs): Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS); Knee Society Score: satisfaction (KSSs); the EuroQol five-dimension five-level questionnaire (EQ-5D-5L); and the pain catastrophizing scale (PCS). Functionality was assessed using the six-minute walk Test (6MWT) and the 30-second chair stand test (30CST). Follow-up timepoints were at baseline, six weeks, three months, and six months after the start. Results. Six weeks of BFR with LL-RT improved all the PROMs except the sports subscale of the KOOS compared to baseline. Highest improvements after six weeks were found for quality of life (QoL) (mean 28.2 (SD 17.2) vs 19 (SD 14.7); p = 0.002), activities of daily living (mean 54.7 (SD 18.7) vs 42.9 (SD 17.3); p < 0.001), and KSSs (mean 17.1 (SD 8.8) vs 12.8 (SD 6.7); p < 0.001). PROMs improvements continued to be present at three-month and six-month follow-up compared to baseline. However, no significant differences were observed in the paired comparisons of the six-week, three-month, and six-month follow-up. The same trends are observed for the 6MWT and 30CST. Conclusion. The reported regime demonstrates improved QoL and function of dissatisfied knee arthroplasty patients. In light of this, the pathway described may provide a valuable and safe treatment option for dissatisfied knee arthroplasty patients for whom therapeutic options are limited. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(12):1416–1425


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 104-B, Issue SUPP_7 | Pages 39 - 39
1 Jul 2022
Prodromidis A Charalambous C Moran E Venkatesh R Pandit H
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Abstract. Introduction. This study aimed to assess the effect of PRP on knee articular cartilage content (thickness and/or volume) and establish if there is a correlation between changes in cartilage and clinical outcomes in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Methodology. A systematic review was performed following the Cochrane methodology. Studies were included if they reported on cartilage content with MRI or Ultrasound before and after the injection. A random-effects model meta-analysis was performed. Results. 11 studies (n=786) from 1,453 records met the inclusion criteria, with five (n=444) being RCTs. The PRP treatment protocol varied widely. Follow-up ranged from 6–12 months. Eight studies reported increase in cartilage content in the PRP group as compared to control (four showing significant difference). In meta-analysis: PRP treatment was not associated with a significant increase in cartilage thickness in medial and lateral femoral condyle, or in the overall cartilage content (4 studies, n=187, Hedges’ g: 0.079; 95%CI: 0.358-0.516; p=0.723). Meta-analysis of 3 RCTs (n=112) showed no significant difference in increasing cartilage content overall with PRP injections compared with no PRP (Hedges’ g: 0.217; 95%CI: -0.177 – 0.611; P=0.281). There was no correlation between changes in cartilage and clinical outcomes following PRP treatment. Conclusion. Treatment of knee osteoarthritis with PRP is not associated with a significant increase in articular cartilage content and any effect on cartilage is not associated with better clinical outcomes. A multi-centre, adequately powered RCT, with a standardized preparation / administration protocol assessing long-term effect of PRP in knee osteoarthritis is needed to guide clinical care


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 105-B, Issue SUPP_13 | Pages 63 - 63
7 Aug 2023
Kumar D Agarwal A Kushwaha N
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Abstract. Purpose. Since arthroscopic reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) started, the use of peroneus longus grafts for primary ACL reconstruction (ACLR) was never thought of as there is very scant literature on it. So, our study aims to compare the functional outcome and complications in patients with ACL injury managed by ACLR with peroneus longus tendon (PLT) and hamstring tendons (HT) respectively. Materials and Methods. Patients with 16–50 years of either gender presenting with symptomatic ACL deficiency were admitted for arthroscopic single bundle ACLR and allocated into two groups (PLT and HT) operated and observed. Functional scores (IKDC and Lysholm score), clinical knee evaluation, donor site morbidity (AOFAS score) and thigh circumference were recorded preoperatively and at six months, one year post-operatively. The same post-op rehabilitation protocol was followed in both groups. Results. 194 patients (hamstring n=96, peroneus n=98) met the inclusion criteria. There were no significant differences between the pre-op, six months post-op and one-year postoperative score between the hamstring and peroneus longus groups in the IKDC (p=0.356) and Lysholm knee score (p=0.289). The mean for the AOFAS was 99.05±3.56 and 99.80±0.70 in the PLT and HT group respectively showing no statistical difference, with a significant improvement in thigh muscle wasting among the PLT group at final follow-up (p<0.001). Conclusion. We observed similar knee stability, functional outcome and no obvious donor site morbidity among both groups and recommend that a PL graft may be a safe, effective, and viable option for arthroscopic single bundle ACL reconstruction


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 105-B, Issue SUPP_13 | Pages 42 - 42
7 Aug 2023
Al-Jabri T Brivio A Martin J Barrett D Maffulli N
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Abstract. Background. Infections are rare and poorly studied complications of unicompartmental knee athroplasty (UKA) surgery. They are significantly less common compared to infections after total knee arthroplasties (TKAs). Optimal management of periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs) after a UKA is not clearly defined in the literature. We present the results of a multicentre retrospective series of UKA PJIs treated with Debridement, Antibiotics and Implant Retention (DAIR). Methodology. Patients presenting between January 2016 and December 2019 with early UKA infection were identified at three specialist centres using the Musculoskeletal Infection Society (MSIS) criteria. All patients underwent a standardized treatment protocol consisting of the DAIR procedure and antibiotic therapy comprising two weeks of intravenous (IV) antibiotics followed by six weeks of oral therapy. The main outcome measure was overall survivorship free from reoperation for infection. Results. A total of 3225 UKAs (2793 (86.2%) medial and 432 (13.8%) lateral UKAs) were performed between January 2016 and December 2019. Nineteen patients had early infections necessitating DAIR. The mean follow-up period was 32.5 months. DAIR showed an overall survivorship free from septic reoperation of 84.2%, with an overall survivorship free from all-cause reoperation of 78.95%. The most common bacteria were Coagulase-negative Staphylococci, Staphylococcus aureus and Group B Streptococci. Three patients required a second DAIR procedure but remained free from re-infection at follow-up obviating the need for more demanding, staged revision surgery. Conclusions. In infected UKAs, the DAIR procedure produces a high rate of success, with a high survivorship of the implant


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 105-B, Issue SUPP_13 | Pages 9 - 9
7 Aug 2023
Mabrouk A Ollivier M
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Abstract. Introduction. Changes in posterior tibial slope (PTS) and patellar height (PH) following proximal tibial osteotomies have been a recent focus for knee surgeons. Increased PTS and decreased PH following medial opening wedge high tibial osteotomy (MOWHTO) have been repeatedly reported in the literature. However, this has been disputed in more recent biomechanical studies. Methodology. A total of 62 cases who underwent MOWHTO were included. Surgery was performed using a dedicated step-by-step protocol focusing on the risks of unintentional slope changes. Clinically, all patients were evaluated preoperatively and at 2 years follow-up with the KOOS scores and UCLA physical activity scale. Preoperative and postoperative radiographic lower limb alignment parameters were measured on full-length lower limb radiographs, including (HKA), (MPTA), (mLDFA), proximal posterior tibial angle (PPTA), (JLCA) and(JLO). PH measurements were assessed on radiographs. Results. There was a significant change in the coronal plane alignment; the mMPTA changed from 84.38° to 90.39°, and the HKA changed from 172.19° to 180.15° (Both P < 0.0001). There was no significant change in the PTS as evidenced by a postoperative PPTA of 80.56 ° from a preoperative of 80.36°. And no significant change in the PH with all the indices; preoperative Caton Deschamps, Insall Salvati, and Schröter indices measured 0.95, 1.03, and 1.56, respectively. In comparison to postoperative measures of 0.93, 1.03, and 1.54, respectively. Conclusion. MOWHTO does not change the PTS or PH when accurate preoperative planning and precise intraoperative freehand technique are adopted. Involuntary modification of these anatomic parameters should be considered surgical errors


Abstract. INTRODUCTION. The anatomic distal femoral locking plate (DF-LCP) has simplified the management of supracondylar femoral fractures with stable knee prostheses. Osteoporosis and comminution seem manageable, but at times, the construct does not permit early mobilization. Considerable soft tissue stripping during open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) may delay union. Biological plating offsets this disadvantage, minimizing morbidity. Materials. Thirty comminuted periprosthetic supracondylar fractures were operated from October 2010 to August 2016. Fifteen (group A) were treated with ORIF, and fifteen (group B) with closed (biological) plating using the anatomical DF-LCP. Post-operatively, standard rehabilitation protocol was followed in all, with hinged-knee-brace supported physiotherapy. Clinico-radiological follow-up was done at 3 months, 6 months, and then yearly (average duration, 30 months), and time to union, complications, failure rates and function were evaluated. Results. Average time to union was 4.5 months (range, 3–6 months) in group A, and 3.5 months (range, 2.5–5 months) in group B. Primary bone grafting was done in twelve patients (all group A). At final follow-up, all fractures had healed, and all (but two) patients were walking unsupported, with no pain or deformity, with average knee range of motion (ROM) of 90° (range, 55 to 100°). Two patients had superficial infection (group A), two had knee stiffness (group A), one had shortening of 1.5cm (group B) and one had valgus malalignment of 10 degrees (group B). Conclusion. Biological plating in comminuted supracondylar fractures about stable TKA prostheses is an excellent option, may obviate need for bone grafting, and reducing complications


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 104-B, Issue SUPP_7 | Pages 1 - 1
1 Jul 2022
Clarke H Antonios J Bozic K Spangehl M Bingham J Schwartz A
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Abstract. Introduction. Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a common cause of revision total knee surgery. Although debridement and implant retention (DAIR) has lower success rates in the chronic setting, it is an accepted treatment for acute PJI. There are two broad DAIR strategies: single debridement or a planned double debridement performed days apart. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of single versus double DAIR with antibiotic beads for acute PJI in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Methodology. A decision tree using single or double DAIR as treatment strategies for acute PJI was constructed. Quality Adjusted Life Years (QALYs) and costs associated with the two treatment arms were calculated. Treatment success rates, failure rates, and mortality rates were derived from the literature. Medical costs were derived from both the literature and Medicare data. A cost-effectiveness plane was constructed from multiple Monte Carlo trials. A sensitivity analysis identified parameters most influencing the optimal strategy decision. Results. Double DAIR with antibiotic beads was the optimal treatment strategy both in terms of the health utility state (82% of trials), and medical cost (97% of trials). Strategy tables demonstrated that as long as the success rate of double debridement is 10% or greater than the success rate of a single debridement, the two-stage protocol is cost-effective. Conclusions. This Markov analysis demonstrates that in the setting of acute PJI following TKA, a double DAIR with antibiotic beads is more cost effective than single DAIR from a societal perspective